Spotlight On: Island Spice

Our Member Relations Committee was pleased to surprise Island Spice as our December 2025 Member Spotlight Presented by Sunshine Village!

Island Spice began with a love story - a love for family, a love for home - old and new, and of course: a love for food. Dee and Fernando, owners of Island Spice, met in high school in Sri Lanka. They got married and started a family, and soon Fernando began working in the kitchen of a large ship. This is where he explored the cuisine of various countries, and his love for food began to flourish.

Dee, Fernando and their son immigrated to the US, where their family grew with three more daughters, became US citizens, and started their entrepreneurial journey. They had their eyes set on bringing a taste of home to New England, and thus, opened the Island Spice Food Truck - New England’s first and only food truck specializing in Sri Lankan cuisine.

Island Spice was founded as a food truck in August, 2022, and became known at events throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts for their delectable Sri Lankan dishes, including signature curries, wings, biriyani, and vegetarian options. They decided to open a restaurant,  and in October 2023, they opened the doors at 32 Center Street in Chicopee Center.

Sadly, last year, Fernando passed away. In his honor, the Island Spice family is still cooking up delicious food to serve in downtown Chicopee, and surrounding communities. In January of 2026, Island Spice will offer beer & wine as well. Make sure to stop by and say hello, and stay for a delightful meal.

Thank you, Island Spice, for the warmth and nourishment you give to our community!